Dill

Why You Need It

• Digestive Comfort: Dill has been traditionally used to soothe the stomach and reduce gas (it is a carminative).
• Bone Health: It is surprisingly rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Antioxidant Power: Contains flavonoids and monoterpenes that help fight oxidative stress in the body.

Deep Dive

Dill is a versatile herb that does more than just taste fresh. Its primary active compound, limonene, gives it its citrusy scent and contributes to its antioxidant properties. Research suggests that dill extract may help stimulate the secretion of bile and enzymes, which aids in breaking down food more efficiently. Furthermore, because it is rich in Vitamin A (via beta-carotene), it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy vision and immune function. Using fresh dill regularly is an easy, low-calorie way to increase your intake of essential micronutrients without adding processed supplements.

Natural Food Sources

Dill weed (the leaves) is the most nutrient-dense part, though the seeds are also used medicinally.

Supplementation

Best consumed as food. While dill essential oil exists, it is highly concentrated and not recommended for casual use. Adding a handful of fresh dill to salads, soups, or yogurt is the safest and most effective way to get the benefits. A typical serving is 1-2 tablespoons (2-4 grams).